Victims Information

What is sexual violence?

Sexual abuse and assault (also known as sexual violence) is any unwanted sexual behaviour towards another person.

It includes rape, incest, child abuse, and other sexual behaviour, like unwanted kissing and touching. It also includes behaviour that does not involve actual touching. For example, forcing someone to watch pornography or masturbation is also sexual violence.

Sexual violence is a serious crime and an abuse of power.

What you can do

After a sexual assault you can:

• report the crime to the police (although you can choose not to)
• apply for a (external link) protection order (external link) if you have a relationship with the person who assaulted you.

Sexual violence support services can help you decide what to do and work with you to help you get the support and assistance you need.

Learn more about the nature and impact of sexual violence

There are a lot of websites with information and resources about sexual violence. Some good ones to start with are:

• Auckland Sexual Abuse Help (external link)
• Wellington Sexual Abuse Help (external link)
• Rape Prevention Education (external link)
• Victim Support (external link)

Last modified: 10th November 2017 Print